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Sleep Medicine Program

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I get to my Sleep Lab appointment?

What should I bring?

Is there any special preparation needed?

What happens during an Overnight Sleep Study?

What happens during a MSLT - Multiple Sleep Latency Test?

What if I have Special Needs?

Are meals provided?

What about my medications?

When will I get my test results?

What if I need to cancel or reschedule my appointment?

How do I get to my Sleep Lab appointment?

The Sleep Lab is located on the 5th floor at the South Street Hospital. If you can manage a few steps, you will need to enter the building using Entrance 1 at the main doors of the hospital on South Street. Park in Parking Lot D.

Once inside, follow the main hallway to the Centre elevators.

If you are using a scooter, walker, or wheelchair then you will need to enter the building using Entrance 2 at the corner of Colborne and Nelson Streets. Park in parking Lot C. The doors will be locked when you arrive so you will need to use the convenience phone located in the grey box beside the door to contact security. They will unlock the doors for you. Once inside take the elevator up to the first floor and then follow the hall to the Centre Elevators.

What should I bring?

Health card and blue hospital card (if you have one)
Comfortable sleepwear or pajamas
Toiletries (sorry, no shower facilities available)
Prescription medications (bring your medication list as well)
Any over the counter medications you may need (e.g. Antacids, pain medication)
Pillow, slippers (optional)

Is there any special preparation needed?

There is no special preparation needed. You should eat a normal meal before coming to the lab. To ensure the best results please do not use moisturizers or lotions on your skin and ensure that your hair is clean and free of oils or gel on the day or your test. Please do not use scented products as this is a fragrance-free area.

What happens during an Overnight Sleep Study?

A polysomographic technician will connect the electrodes that will record your brain waves and muscle movements throughout the night. The electrodes are placed in specific areas and applied with water-soluble paste and tape. Despite all of the equipment, most people find their sleep is not affected much.

After settling into bed, the technician will go to a monitoring room and ask you, over an intercom, to perform certain tasks that will show the electrodes are recording properly. You will be observed on a monitor during the night to allow the technician to note your body movements during sleep.

When everything is working properly, the lights will be turned off and you can go to sleep. Many patients are so chronically sleepy that they have no problem falling asleep. You will be awakened in the morning and the electrodes will be removed. Since they are applied with water-soluble paste and tape, removal is quick and easy. You will be asked to complete a questionnaire concerning your sleep the previous night, and then you can go home. Your appointment will be finished by 7:00 am.

What happens during a MSLT - Multiple Sleep Latency Test?

The doctor may wish to also do sleep testing the day after your overnight study. This is called a multiple sleep latency test and consists of four chances to nap at two hour intervals. This test helps to document the extent of daytime sleepiness. If an MSLT is required you will be notified when your overnight study is booked.

What if I have Special Needs?

Please let us know if you have any special needs (e.g. wheelchair, oxygen, catheters etc.). Our technicians do not provide nursing care. Given advanced notice, we can assist you in making any necessary arrangements to ensure your stay in the lab is as comfortable as possible.

Are meals provided?

This appointment is an outpatient appointment (you are not admitted to the hospital). We do not provide meals or snacks (Note: if you are scheduled for an MSLT your breakfast will be provided to you, but you are required to bring/purchase your own lunch). If you are diabetic, please bring your own snacks.

What about my medications?

Unless otherwise stated, patients should continue to take all their medications as normal (including over the counter medications). Please bring all your medications along with a list of all your medications and their dosages. We cannot provide you with any medication.

When will I get my test results?

Your test result will be analyzed in the lab and a written report will be sent to the physician who referred you for the sleep study. This normally takes two to three weeks.